My child wants to attend his or her first tournament. What should I expect?

Due to the competitive nature tournaments, we recommend that parents discuss the topics of winning and losing, handling the pressures of competition, and good sportsmanship with their children. It is important to be a good sport, win or lose. The Pokémon Company International believes that children should be having fun in the process of competing, regardless of the outcome. First and foremost, Pokémon tournaments should be fun for all who participate, win or lose.

It is also important that players understand their responsibilities in preparing for the event. Players will need a legal deck (the format will be provided well in advance by the Tournament Organizer and noted on the Organized Play website) built to meet the regulations for that event.

If a child is new to the game, or new to tournaments, try to show up early, and have a judge look over the deck prior to the event. Judges will be happy to provide this service for your child, and it will help ensure a pleasant experience. Arriving early will also assure that the Tournament Organizer has time to answer any questions you may have, and better prepare your child for the upcoming event.

It is very important that players listen to the Tournament Organizer and/or judge when they make their announcements at the beginning of the tournament. The Tournament Organizer or judge will outline important points, such as how to report the match scores, where pairing and standing information will be posted, how to call a Judge and other pertinent information at the beginning of the tournament.

Players should understand that, even if they are familiar with this information, they need to listen and not be disruptive. All players should have the same opportunity to learn and understand the rules of play prior to an event.